Violators of the marine fishing regulations were apprehended in Al-Qunfudhah, Makkah

As part of the ongoing efforts by the security authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to maintain security and enforce order in the coastal areas, the coastal patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate in the Makkah Region were able to arrest two Bangladeshi residents for their clear violation of the security and safety regulations for those practicing maritime activities.

The relevant authorities explained that the violators were fishing without the necessary permits and were found in possession of quantities of fish caught illegally. The competent authorities immediately initiated the necessary legal procedures against them, in preparation for referring them to the appropriate authorities to apply the penalties stipulated by law.

The importance of adhering to fishing permits and maritime regulations

This operation comes within the framework of the Ministry of Interior and the General Directorate of Border Guards' commitment to strictly enforcing maritime regulations. The safety and security regulations for those engaged in maritime activities are a cornerstone for ensuring the safety of both fishermen and recreational boaters, as well as regulating fishing operations to prevent the depletion of marine resources through unsustainable practices. Obtaining permits is not merely a routine procedure; it is a regulatory tool that ensures security authorities are aware of the identities and locations of those using the sea, thus guaranteeing a rapid response in emergencies.

Protecting the marine environment in light of the Kingdom's Vision 2030

The importance of these seizures extends beyond security to encompass crucial environmental and economic dimensions that align with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. The Kingdom places great emphasis on protecting the marine environment, particularly in the Red Sea, home to rare coral reefs and unique biodiversity. Illegal or overfishing threatens the ecological balance and depletes fish stocks, negatively impacting food security and the local economy.

Through initiatives such as "Green Saudi Arabia" and the Royal Reserves, the Kingdom is working to promote the sustainability of natural resources. The efforts of the Border Guard in apprehending violators are considered an integral part of the environmental protection system, as they stand as a bulwark against any practices that may harm wildlife or pollute the marine environment.

Call for reporting and community cooperation

In closing, the General Directorate of Border Guards urged all citizens and residents to fully comply with the regulations and instructions pertaining to fishing and marine recreation, and to actively contribute to the protection of living aquatic resources. It emphasized the importance of immediately reporting any suspected cases or violations that constitute an attack on the environment or wildlife.

Violations can be reported by calling the emergency numbers, which are (911) in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh, the Eastern Province and Madinah, and the numbers (994), (999) and (996) in the rest of the regions of the Kingdom, stressing that all reports are dealt with in complete confidentiality and without the slightest legal responsibility on the reporter.